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Library trustees outline priorities, usage increases and vendor shifts in 2025 impact report
Summary
The Oldridge Area Public Library reported growth in visits and program attendance in 2025, outlined operational improvements and vendor transitions after Baker & Taylor's closure, and said trustees are exploring a modern, accessible new library to address space limits and serve the community long-term.
Gary Olken, a member of the Oldridge Area Public Library board of trustees, presented the library's 2025 impact report to the Holdridge City Council, saying the year represented "rebuilding, reinvestment, and renewed focus" and that the organization is positioning itself for long-term stability.
Olken and a staff presenter, Sarah, highlighted internal changes including new training, updated procedures and systems to support staff; partnerships with the city and the Nebraska Library Commission to stabilize infrastructure; and a new strategic plan with updated mission, vision and values.
Financial and usage figures featured in the presentation. Olken stated a total of $555,521.69 for the fiscal year (July 2024'June 2025), and the presentation listed line-item spending including collections ($47,388), professional development ($2,947), subscriptions ($7,140), building maintenance ($8,211), utilities ($16,108.81) and programming ($5,958.48). Sarah reported circulation and engagement numbers: about 45,645 physical circulations, 58,837 e-material borrows, 28,709 in-person visits (an increase of roughly 600), and 10,753 active library cards (about 6,627 from Holdridge residents). Sarah also said the library's physical and digital collection contains about 128,476 items.
The presenters described a major vendor disruption in 2025 when Baker & Taylor ceased operations; the library is transitioning ordering and standing-order workflows to Amazon's library services and Ingram Library Services to maintain timely access to popular titles. Programmatic highlights included 526 programs serving 9,429 attendees (an increase of 2,683 from the prior year), the addition of a public 3D printer (used 81 times in its first month), Teen Science Cafe (a nationally recognized program unique in Nebraska), wildlife encounters and other outreach partnerships with local organizations and the National Park Service.
Olken stressed facility constraints as a continuing limitation: limited space for passive, self-guided activities and adult quiet areas. He said a feasibility study identified five priorities for a potential new library: flexible community gathering space, dedicated children and teen areas, a modern accessible building (including elevators and improved restrooms), space to expand services and collections, and a facility that reflects community pride and progress. The trustees are exploring development of a modern expanded library to meet those priorities.
During Q&A a council member asked whether the 150 daily average was physical visits or digital contacts; Sarah confirmed it referred to physical visitors coming through the door. The presentation concluded and the council thanked the presenters.
The report will inform future capital planning and budgeting discussions.
